Willie Colon Participates in Team Drills

The Jets got a bit of good news today as Willie Colon progresses in his return from injuries. He participated in team drills today for the first time.

Willie Colon is in on team drills for the first time #nyj

— Brian Costello (@BrianCoz) July 29, 2014

There was one somewhat interesting note.

Oday Aboushi and Willie Colon are both getting first-team reps at right guard today.

— Darryl Slater (@DarrylSlater) July 29, 2014

Is this a sign of an open competition at guard? Rex Ryan was holding his card close on that one.

Rex says #Jets are "phasing" Colon in as he returns. Says he looked pretty good today. #Jets

— Dennis Waszak Jr. (@DWAZ73) July 29, 2014

We will probably find out more in the coming days when Colon will or will not get all of the first team reps. I do hope they give Aboushi a shot. Colon has more of an NFL reputation, but the best guy should play. If Aboushi's reported improvement is genuine, the Jets should see whether he might be able to perform at a higher level.

Colon's difficulties staying healthy might suggest he would be better served in a backup role with more limited playing time and less wear.